INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) today released 2020-2021 school year COVID-19 reentry considerations. Indiana’s Considerations for Learning and Safe Schools (IN-CLASS) was developed in partnership with the Governor’s office, the Indiana State Department of Health, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, the Indiana High School Athletic Association, and IDOE’s Reentry Advisory Group, comprised of practitioners and professional organizations.

“The health and safety of Hoosier students, school staff, and communities is priority one. Providing students with a quality education is critical and therefore it is crucial we offer considerations focused on getting students back in the classroom in a safe manner,” said State Superintendent Dr. Jennifer McCormick. “Considering the many unknowns associated with COVID-19, we also recognize the importance of alternative learning opportunities. We appreciate the thoughtful and collaborative spirit in which IN-CLASS was developed.”

]]>https://wyrz.org/indiana-department-of-education-announces-2020-2021-school-year-covid-19-reentry-considerations/feed/0Reps. Banks, Walorski Propose Grissom Air Force Base as Future Space Command HQhttps://wyrz.org/reps-banks-walorski-propose-grissom-air-force-base-as-future-space-command-hq/
https://wyrz.org/reps-banks-walorski-propose-grissom-air-force-base-as-future-space-command-hq/#respondFri, 05 Jun 2020 12:42:08 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21135WASHINGTON – This week, Reps. Jim Banks (IN-03) and. Jackie Walorski (IN-02) sent a letter to United States Secretary of the Air Force Barbara M. Barrett urging her to consider Grissom Air Force Base as the future site of the U.S. Space Command headquarters. On August 29, 2019 President Trump activated the U.S. Space Command as the eleventh Unified …

WASHINGTON – This week, Reps. Jim Banks (IN-03) and. Jackie Walorski (IN-02) sent a letter to United States Secretary of the Air Force Barbara M. Barrett urging her to consider Grissom Air Force Base as the future site of the U.S. Space Command headquarters.

On August 29, 2019 President Trump activated the U.S. Space Command as the eleventh Unified Combatant Command. The Space Command will serve as a centralized authority for the U.S. military’s role in space. The Department of the Air Force will choose a permanent site for Space Command headquarters in early 2021, which is expected to become fully operational in about six years. The Space Command will have approximately 1,400 military and civilian personnel working in its headquarters.

“I applaud the Space Force for expanding their search beyond the traditional space hubs, like Colorado, California and Florida. Indiana has an established defense innovation base, superior educational institutions and a low cost of living; our state is innovative, primed for growth and I’m glad it isn’t being overlooked,” Said Rep. Banks. “Within Indiana, Grissom Air Force Base is an excellent candidate site. Its runway was designed as an alternative landing location for space missions and it has plenty of room for expansion. I encourage the Air Force to consider Grissom as they weigh options for the new U.S. Space Command headquarters.”

Please see below for the text of Rep. Banks and Rep. Walorski’s letter:

June 2, 2020

The Honorable Barbara M. Barrett

Secretary of the Air Force

1670 Air Force Pentagon

Washington, D.C. 20330-1670

Dear Secretary Barrett,

I applaud your leadership in establishing the U.S. Space Command, the sixth branch of the military and an accomplishment of great significance to our country. As you weigh options for the location of the headquarters for the U.S. Space Command, we urge you to consider Grissom Air Force Base in Indiana.

Grissom Air Force Base is a promising resource for space assets and personnel, with significant room for housing and office expansion. Grissom Air Force Base also has a 1,250 ft runway previously designated as an alternative landing location for space missions.

Indiana is an excellent location as the U.S. Space Command headquarters. Indiana’s low cost of living and access to nationally recognized Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math universities will prove to be a worthwhile investment for the U.S. Air Force. Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb also values the partnership between defense industry, educational institutions, and the Department of Defense. In his 2020 State of the State address, Governor Holcomb committed to tripling Indiana’s federal defense investments. As defense investment continues to grow, a U.S. Space Command at Grissom Air Force Base will benefit from an increasingly vibrant national security ecosystem.

Thank you for considering Grissom Air Force Base in Indiana as the headquarters for U.S. Space Force. Please feel free to reach out to our offices with any further questions.

]]>https://wyrz.org/reps-banks-walorski-propose-grissom-air-force-base-as-future-space-command-hq/feed/0Indiana Department of Education Kicks Off Second Annual Teacher Leaders Bootcamphttps://wyrz.org/indiana-department-of-education-kicks-off-second-annual-teacher-leaders-bootcamp/
https://wyrz.org/indiana-department-of-education-kicks-off-second-annual-teacher-leaders-bootcamp/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 14:51:55 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21129INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) today kicked off the second year of its Teacher Leaders Bootcamp. The 2020 Bootcamp offers selected educators an opportunity to engage in innovative and relevant professional development focused on growing their leadership capacity. “As a former teacher, I understand the importance of growing effective educator leadership systems,” …

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) today kicked off the second year of its Teacher Leaders Bootcamp. The 2020 Bootcamp offers selected educators an opportunity to engage in innovative and relevant professional development focused on growing their leadership capacity.

“As a former teacher, I understand the importance of growing effective educator leadership systems,” said State Superintendent Dr. Jennifer McCormick. “Creating a system that equips Indiana’s passionate and dedicated teachers with the knowledge and tools they need to lead is key to the success of their districts, and I am excited to once again offer Indiana’s Teacher Leaders Bootcamp.”

Committed to the recruitment, retention, and development of excellent educators across the state, IDOE developed the Teacher Leaders Bootcamp. The Bootcamp provides participating teachers an opportunity to develop teacher leadership skills. Graduates are equipped to implement those skills to support and drive their schools toward success. In partnership with IDOE and national experts, participants will gain knowledge and experience, build connections, and engage in professional learning. In addition, the Bootcamp creates engagement in a statewide network of teachers to promote and strengthen teacher leadership in Indiana.

In an effort to build upon the experience and success of last year’s Bootcamp, for 2020, IDOE invited back 10 educators to serve as mentors to the 53 educators participating in the five-day sessions.

]]>https://wyrz.org/indiana-department-of-education-kicks-off-second-annual-teacher-leaders-bootcamp/feed/0Two Avon residents named to Governor’s Commission on Rehabilitation Serviceshttps://wyrz.org/two-avon-residents-named-to-governors-commission-on-rehabilitation-services/
https://wyrz.org/two-avon-residents-named-to-governors-commission-on-rehabilitation-services/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 14:44:11 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21127INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced several new appointments and reappointments to various state boards and commissions. Commission on Rehabilitation Services The governor made three reappointments to the commission, who will serve through June 30, 2023: Richard Propes (Indianapolis), program director with FSSADavid Spradley (Carmel), research nurse at the IU School of MedicineFrederick …

]]>https://wyrz.org/two-avon-residents-named-to-governors-commission-on-rehabilitation-services/feed/0Software Development Firm Plans Expansion, Standalone HQ in Hamilton Countyhttps://wyrz.org/software-development-firm-plans-expansion-standalone-hq-in-hamilton-county/
https://wyrz.org/software-development-firm-plans-expansion-standalone-hq-in-hamilton-county/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 14:09:25 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21124WESTFIELD, Ind. (June 4, 2020) – SEP, a software product design and development company, announced plans today to expand its operations, constructing a new corporate headquarters along U.S. Highway 31 in Westfield. The new facility will more than double the company’s central Indiana footprint and enable SEP to continue expanding its team, with plans to …

WESTFIELD, Ind. (June 4, 2020) – SEP, a software product design and development company, announced plans today to expand its operations, constructing a new corporate headquarters along U.S. Highway 31 in Westfield. The new facility will more than double the company’s central Indiana footprint and enable SEP to continue expanding its team, with plans to create up to 65 new, high-wage jobs by the end of 2025.

“Indiana is leading a tech transformation in the Midwest, as companies like SEP continue to grow and expand in our state,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. “With the construction of this new corporate headquarters, SEP is deepening its roots in Indiana and furthering its commitment to providing a positive company culture, supporting its community, and leveraging the talent pipeline of our Hoosier universities, helping more graduates launch careers here in the state.”

SEP will invest nearly $2.6 million to build its new 70,000-square-foot corporate headquarters on approximately 20 acres off U.S. 31 at 161st Street in Westfield. The expansion will allow the company to permanently own its facilities and continue growing its team. Construction is slated to begin in September, with a planned move-in date of December 2021. The new campus includes a wooded area and connectivity to two parks. The company plans to incorporate walking trails and firepits near a pond on the campus.

“We’ve been a Hoosier company from the start,” said SEP President and CEO Raman Ohri. “Indiana has some of the best engineering and design schools in the country and we want to keep those graduates here. The Midwest can get overlooked because of the allure of the coasts, but we know this is a great place to live and work, a great place to raise a family, and a welcoming community and therefore it’s a great place to have a business. Westfield exemplifies community-focus and care. It’s the perfect complement to our culture. We’re looking forward to being an engaged member of the community and partnering with them as we grow together.”

SEP, which is 100% employee-owned through its employee stock ownership plan, has been named a Best Place to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce for nine consecutive years and is in the Best Places to Work Hall of Fame. The company has also been recognized by IndyStar as a Top Workplace, previously ranking No. 1 for work-life balance. SEP currently employs 142 associates and plans to hire additional software developers and designers. Interested applicants may apply online.

“SEP is the kind of company that Westfield is trying to attract,” said Westfield Mayor Andy Cook. “It brings a workforce and wage that will help our community compete. I am equally as excited about the ‘intangibles.’ The innovation this team will bring to our community is unrivaled and the SEP Foundation contributes to the community-focused mindset we work hard to cultivate in Westfield.”

Founded in 1988, SEP is one of Indiana’s largest software development firms with clients ranging from Fortune 100 to high-growth scale-up companies. SEP builds software that keeps airplanes in the sky, helps farmers feed the world and supports first responders. Nearly 90% of the company’s employees are graduates of Indiana colleges, and 81% of the engineering staff hold degrees from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Purdue University, Taylor University, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis or Ball State University. Indiana University is well represented in the company’s operations and design groups.

Last year, the company created The SEP Foundation, managed by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, to give back to local organizations. The foundation’s mission is to provide marginalized individuals and families with new opportunities to help them achieve self-sufficiency. In 2019, The SEP Foundation awarded $75,000 to three organizations; HVAF of Indiana, Horizon House and The Last Mile. To take the initiative one step further, company executives each created a corporate partnership with a local nonprofit of their choice, partnering with Camptown, Student Impact, Gleaners and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) offered Software Engineering Professionals (SEP) up to $1,125,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. SEP plans to announce its intention to locate in Westfield to the Westfield City Council on Monday, June 8. The Council will consider additional incentives at a later date.

About SEPSEP is a software product design and development firm specializing in high cost of failure engagements. They provide powerful teams of thoughtful, full-stack developers and designers to bring ideas to life. SEP makes software that matters more – software that keeps planes in the sky and helps first responders save lives. Founded in 1988, SEP is one of Indiana’s largest software development firms with 140+ employees. Clients span from high-growth scale-ups to Fortune 100 companies. The company is 100 percent employee-owned and is consistently recognized as a top workplace. For more information, visit www.sep.com.

About IEDCThe Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indiana’s economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 15-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

]]>https://wyrz.org/software-development-firm-plans-expansion-standalone-hq-in-hamilton-county/feed/0Indiana dairy association announces winners of Month of May ‘Hoosier Heroes’ campaignhttps://wyrz.org/indiana-dairy-association-announces-winners-of-month-of-may-hoosier-heroes-campaign/
https://wyrz.org/indiana-dairy-association-announces-winners-of-month-of-may-hoosier-heroes-campaign/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 13:21:57 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21122INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 1, 2020) – American Dairy Association Indiana (ADAI) has proudly celebrated the Month of May, and the iconic Indianapolis 500 winner’s Drink of Milk in Victory Circle, by honoring and supporting those most impacted by COVID-19 as “Hoosier Heroes.” ADAI reached statewide and across industries for nominations of Hoosiers who have gone …

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 1, 2020) – American Dairy Association Indiana (ADAI) has proudly celebrated the Month of May, and the iconic Indianapolis 500 winner’s Drink of Milk in Victory Circle, by honoring and supporting those most impacted by COVID-19 as “Hoosier Heroes.”

ADAI reached statewide and across industries for nominations of Hoosiers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for their communities during the COVID-19 crisis. Over the three-week campaign, ADAI received nearly 100 nominations for individual heroes. After reading the first nominations to come in, it was obvious people were doing what they could with what they had and their neighbors, family and colleagues were eager to share their inspiring stories.

With each nomination, partners and individuals were given the chance to donate money to help stock food banks throughout the state through Feeding Indiana’s Hungry. All funds raised are being passed straight through to help purchase additional dairy foods for those in need. Founding partners Corteva and Farm Credit made generous donations to kickoff the efforts. Collectively, ADAI partners and individuals donated over $10,000 in honor of their communities’ Hoosier Heroes.

In appreciation for their selfless acts during this time, each nominated hero will be receiving a custom Hoosier Hero milk bottle and commemorative poster as a thank you for their service. In addition, five lucky heroes have been selected to receive a “Winners Drink Milk” prize pack that includes a larger, special edition etched milk bottle. One additional recipient will receive an exclusive VIP Experience with reigning IndyCar Series Champion Josef Newgarden at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

“Winners Drink Milk” Prize Recipients

Leonora Simonton, Bed and Breakfast Owner, Indianapolis

Ann Lira, Teacher, Granger

Melissa Funk, Purdue University College of Agriculture, Otterbein

Jody Garst, Registered Nurse, Thorntown

Ross Katz, Restauranteur, Indianapolis

VIP Experience Winner

Sylvia Higginbotham, Director of Nursing, Edinburgh

Prize winners were selected across industries based on character, response to pandemic, generosity of resources, and empathy for others.

“American Dairy Association Indiana and its Hoosier dairy farm families are thrilled by the response to Hoosier Heroes, and the funds that it helped raise for communities and families in need during these difficult times,” said ADAI CEO Jenni Browning. “We celebrate the collective strength of Indiana and toast to the partners, nominees and heroes involved for their commitment to each other, knowing that now more than ever, ‘Winners Drink Milk’!”

]]>https://wyrz.org/indiana-dairy-association-announces-winners-of-month-of-may-hoosier-heroes-campaign/feed/0Carmel Mayor Lifts Curfew Orderhttps://wyrz.org/carmel-mayor-lifts-curfew-order/
https://wyrz.org/carmel-mayor-lifts-curfew-order/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 12:56:35 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21119CARMEL, IN – Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard has lifted the Executive Order 2020-08, which established a 9 p.m. curfew yesterday, June 2, 2020. While the curfew is lifted, this does not affect the Disaster Emergency Declaration issued on June 1, 2020. That Declaration remains in place, which will allow the mayor to take swift action …

CARMEL, IN – Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard has lifted the Executive Order 2020-08, which established a 9 p.m. curfew yesterday, June 2, 2020. While the curfew is lifted, this does not affect the Disaster Emergency Declaration issued on June 1, 2020. That Declaration remains in place, which will allow the mayor to take swift action to protect the community from any threats of civil unrest.

“After conferring this afternoon with the Police Chief, I feel that we can safely lift the restrictions on travel throughout the community. However, I will not hesitate to reissue a curfew if the need arises. I appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the community as we navigate this new territory together,” said Mayor Brainard.

]]>https://wyrz.org/carmel-mayor-lifts-curfew-order/feed/0Visit Indiana’s The 20 IN 20: Outdoor Adventureshttps://wyrz.org/visit-indianas-the-20-in-20-outdoor-adventures/
https://wyrz.org/visit-indianas-the-20-in-20-outdoor-adventures/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 12:48:20 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21117INDIANAPOLIS – (June 3, 2020) – Visit Indiana’s next #The20IN20 list reveals the top outdoor adventure stops in the Hoosier State, perfect for social distancing. “Travel is permitted, and outdoor experiences are great for mental and physical health, but it is still best to practice social distancing as we continue to fight COVID-19,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne …

“Travel is permitted, and outdoor experiences are great for mental and physical health, but it is still best to practice social distancing as we continue to fight COVID-19,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch. “Please take precautions, plan ahead, and follow CDC and local guidelines while on your outdoor adventure in the Hoosier State.”

Along the south shore of Lake Michigan, you will find one of our state’s natural wonders, the Indiana Dunes. And if you’re looking for a challenge, look no further than The 3 Dune Challenge. The hike takes you up to three of the tallest dunes on the southern shore of Lake Michigan: Mt. Jackson, Mt. Holden and Mt. Tom. If you conquer the challenge, stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (opens June 14) to buy a shirt and pick up a free commemorative sticker or decal and postcards

Griffin Bike Park in Terre Haute began as a Bicentennial Legacy Project by Gene and Donna Griffin. The premiere 2+mile stacked loop trail system includes two multi-use core trails and beginner, intermediate and advanced bike-specific trail networks. Last year, they opened the Warrior Trail, an accessible path, named in honor of their son, Sgt. Dale Griffin. Unfortunately, Sgt. Griffin paid the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan in 2009.

The Pete Dye Golf Trail is a one-of-a-kind collection of golf courses, you’ll only find in Indiana. Dye is considered in many circles to be the most influential golf course architect of the last five decades. While best known for epic designs like the TPC at Sawgrass, Dye honed his craft right here in Indiana. He is considered a true golf icon.

“Golf tourism is $70 billion industry in the U.S., and this trail puts Indiana on the map,” said Misty Weisensteiner. “Along with golf, our state parks and nature preserves are top notch and have offer several activities, like hiking, biking, climbing and birding.”

Put these 20 spots on your calendar this year for an incredible outdoor adventure in the Hoosier State. Visit Indiana will reveal 20 lists of 20 must-see, must-do Indiana experiences, one at a time.

When you visit a destination from any of the lists, post your photos on Instagram with #The20IN20 for a chance to win a giveaway. We will randomly draw 20 winners every other month. Winners will receive one of the following custom items: beanie cap, golf umbrella, beach towel or stadium blanket. Plan your 2020 adventure by completing at least 20 of our 400 must-see Indiana experiences! Find out more about The 20 IN 20 here.

]]>https://wyrz.org/visit-indianas-the-20-in-20-outdoor-adventures/feed/0Wrong Way Driver Causes Four Car Crash that Results in Serious Injuries on I-70https://wyrz.org/wrong-way-driver-causes-four-car-crash-that-results-in-serious-injuries-on-i-70/
https://wyrz.org/wrong-way-driver-causes-four-car-crash-that-results-in-serious-injuries-on-i-70/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 12:44:37 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21115Indianapolis, IN – Wednesday evening, around 6:48, the Indiana State Police Dispatch Center began receiving calls about a wrong way driver on I-70 near Holt Road, within seconds, and before Troopers could respond to the area, those calls turned into information about a serious head-on crash. The crash involved four vehicles and shut down the westbound …

Indianapolis, IN – Wednesday evening, around 6:48, the Indiana State Police Dispatch Center began receiving calls about a wrong way driver on I-70 near Holt Road, within seconds, and before Troopers could respond to the area, those calls turned into information about a serious head-on crash. The crash involved four vehicles and shut down the westbound lanes of I-70.

Investigators believe a Grey SUV, driven by Trey Holmes of Indianapolis, entered I-70 from Holt Road going eastbound in the westbound lanes. That vehicle struck a grey Chrysler Town and Country head-on. Three occupants of that vehicle, including one juvenile,was transported to area hospitals. The driver and the juvenile suffered non-life threatening injuries, the passenger was entrapped and had to be extricated by the Indianapolis Fire Department and was subsequently transported to the hospital by EMS with serious injuries. Trey Holmes was also injured in the crash, he was transported to the hospital for treatment as well. Two other vehicles were caught up in the wreckage but nobody else suffered any injuries. The westbound lanes of I-70 were closed for nearly three hours while the crash was investigated and the wreckage was removed.

Holmes is suspected of driving while intoxicated and the investigation into those allegations is ongoing.

All actions or crimes mentioned above are alleged and all suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court. The investigation is ongoing and there is no further information to release at this time.

ISP was assisted by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department with this investigation.

]]>https://wyrz.org/wrong-way-driver-causes-four-car-crash-that-results-in-serious-injuries-on-i-70/feed/0Gov. Holcomb Signs Executive Orders in the Fight Against COVID-19https://wyrz.org/gov-holcomb-signs-executive-orders-in-the-fight-against-covid-19/
https://wyrz.org/gov-holcomb-signs-executive-orders-in-the-fight-against-covid-19/#respondThu, 04 Jun 2020 12:42:13 +0000https://wyrz.org/?p=21113INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb today signed Executive Order 20-30 to extend the public health emergency for an additional 30 days to July 4th. The Governor also signed Executive Order 20-31 which allows older youth to remain in foster care beyond the age of 18 for the duration of the public health emergency. This …

INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb today signed Executive Order 20-30 to extend the public health emergency for an additional 30 days to July 4th.

The Governor also signed Executive Order 20-31 which allows older youth to remain in foster care beyond the age of 18 for the duration of the public health emergency. This will allow them to continue to receive education, workforce training and health benefits.

Executive Order 20-31 also extends the time period to renew professional licenses, certificates or permits to June 30.

Due to the current restrictions on in-person dining in restaurants, the executive order reduces the amount of food sales a restaurant must report to maintain its alcoholic beverage permit.

Additionally, deadlines for the calculation of local taxes were also extended by the executive order.